# Core Lightning (CLN)

Source URL: https://support.dxp.blockstream.com/education/glossary/core-lightning
Updated: 2026-05-26T17:14:40.000Z
Letter: C

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A community-driven [Lightning implementation](https://support.dxp-staging.blockstream.com/education/glossary/lightning-implementation) focusing on [specification](https://support.dxp-staging.blockstream.com/education/glossary/lightning-specification) compliance and performance. CLN is known for its lightweight memory footprint, allowing it to run on low-spec devices, and its modular approach to design, giving developers the freedom to create custom plugins and enhance functionality.  
  
More information on CLN can be found on its official website: [corelightning.org](https://corelightning.org/)

![](https://storage.googleapis.com/dxp-staging-assets/content/glossary/core-lightning.png)

A comparison chart between CLN and other leading Lightning implementations.

Navigation: Blockstream Help Center > Education > Glossary > Core Lightning (CLN)

## Related Terms in This Letter
- [Cold Storage](https://support.dxp.blockstream.com/education/glossary/cold-storage-security)
- [Confidential Transactions (CT)](https://support.dxp.blockstream.com/education/glossary/confidential-transactions)
- [Core Lightning (CLN)](https://support.dxp.blockstream.com/education/glossary/core-lightning) (current)
- [Checksum](https://support.dxp.blockstream.com/education/glossary/checksum)